The Newcomer's Guide to Driving in Canada
August 2, 2024
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Familiarizing yourself with the roads in a new country can be challenging and exciting, especially when driving in Canada, with its diverse driving conditions and regulations. For newcomers to Canada, understanding local traffic laws, road signs, and weather-related driving tips is crucial for a smooth transition when settling in the country. Whether moving to a bustling city or a quiet town, you will need a go-to resource for driving safely and confidently in Canada.
Below, we provide an insight guide on what to expect when driving in Canada, from getting a licence to the laws you must follow to ensure safety on Canadian roads.
Driving Licences in Canada
To drive a car legally in Canada, you need a driver’s licence issued by the government of the territory or province you settled in. You can drive anywhere in the country with a Canadian driver's license. If you have a valid driver's licence from your home country, you can use it to drive in Canada briefly after you arrive.
Should you decide to use a foreign driver’s licence in Canada, you must obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your country of origin. An IDP also translates your foreign driver's licence into English or French. Getting a driver’s licence in Canada may include one or two driving tests and a written exam on the rules of the road.
Once you have your Canadian driver's licence, renew it periodically. Your driver's licence expiry date will be printed on your card. To learn more about driver’s licences, exams, and driving lessons, visit one of the following transportation departments in your province or territory.
| Provincial or Territorial Transportation Departments in Canada | |
|---|---|
| Alberta | Nova Scotia |
| British Columbia | Nunavut |
| New Brunswick | Ontario |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | Prince Edward Island |
| Northwest Territories | Quebec |
| Saskatchewan | Yukon |
| Manitoba | |
Car Insurance in Canada
You cannot drive a car without car insurance in Canada. If you regularly drive a car belonging to a relative or friend, you must enlist on their car insurance plan. There are different types of car insurance plans in Canada. These different plans include coverage for either injury to yourself, damage to your car, or the costs of damages and injury to others should you be in an accident.
The costs of your car insurance in Canada cost depends on the plan you choose and your:
- Age,
- Driving record,
- Living location, and
- Driving experience.
The cost also varies between insurance companies. For this reason, you should understand what each plan covers and contact various companies for details about the pricing of their insurance plans.
Rules and Regulations of Driving in Canada
You must follow Canada’s driving laws. Before you start driving, learn the laws in your Canadian province or territory through transportation guides available at service centers, online, or in stores. It is vital to keep in mind that driving laws are strictly enforced in Canada.
What Should I do If I am in an Accident in Canada?
It is a serious crime to leave the scene of a car accident. This includes accidents involving hitting a pedestrian or another vehicle. If you are in an accident, call the emergency helpline number (911) for police and an ambulance and wait at the scene until the emergency services you called arrive. Ensure you exchange information with the other driver if you are in a vehicle accident, including your:
- Name,
- Address,
- Telephone number
- Licence plate
- Driver’s licence numbers,
- Insurance company name, and
- Insurance plan number.
Leasing or Buying a Car in Canada
When buying or leasing a car in Canada, you must search the internet or call the local transportation department in your city or town to find out about car dealers or rental agencies. If you need a car only for short periods, you can rent one from a car rental agency. Include car insurance in your rental agreement if you need it. In some Canadian cities, car-sharing programs let you use a car without buying, leasing, or renting one. Research this option to see if it meets your needs.
Buying a Car in Canada
You can buy a new or used car from a car dealer or person selling their car. You can get information and help buying or selling a car from the department regulating cars and driving in your province or territory.
Leasing a Car in Canada
Many people in Canada lease a car from a car dealer instead of buying a car. Leasing a car in Canada requires a legal agreement between the dealer and yourself in which you agree to pay a fee to use the car for a specific period, usually several years. Also included in the agreement is your responsibility to return the car to the dealer in good condition after the time ends. Since a lease is a legal agreement, understand the terms and conditions before signing it.
Driving Safety in Canada
The Canada Safety Council provides information on what drivers can do to improve road safety in Canada. The most prominent strategies outlined to improve road safety in Canada include:
- Becoming familiar with safety issues related to winter driving,
- Keeping up to date with snowy and icy weather as they pose significant driving hazards in most parts of Canada.
- Driving slowly in snowy and icy conditions, and
- Buying special winter tires for your car, which is mandatory in some provinces.
Now that you have a better understanding of the rules of the road in Canada, you can transition into becoming a Canadian driver with ease using a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).
FAQs
Can I Drive a Rental Car in Canada With a Foreign Licence?
Yes, you can drive a rental car in Canada with a foreign licence, provided it is valid and written in English or accompanied by an IDP. Rental agencies may have specific requirements, so checking their policies before booking is best. Ensure your foreign licence is valid and up-to-date to avoid any issues.
What Road Signs Should I Be Aware of in Canada?
In Canada, you must take note of standard road signs such as stop signs, yield signs, and various speed limit indicators. Familiarize yourself with bilingual signs, as many are in English and French, and watch for unique symbols indicating winter driving conditions. Understanding these signs will help you navigate Canadian roads safely.
What Are the Requirements for a Road Test in Canada?
To take a road test in Canada, you must provide a valid driver's licence from your home country, proof of identity, and a roadworthy vehicle. Requirements vary by province, so check with the local licensing authority for specific criteria. You may also need to pass a written test before scheduling your road test.